Mini Countryman Cooper SD ALL4 Auto 5dr Car Review - March 2012

The power of this model is identical to those of the standard Countryman Cooper SD, delivering 143 bhp at 4000 rpm, with torque figures 225 lb-ft at 1750-2700 rpm. In total, the car manages to reach a top speed 120 mph and acceleration is also fairly fast with the car taking just 9.5 seconds to travel from 0-62 mph.

In terms of driving comfort, the handling of this 4x4 could be better; there is a fair amount of body roll during corners and bends. The Mini therefore lacks the agility of other models and this is a real disappointment for buyers. On top of this, the drive can feel fairly bumpy and the steering can feel uncomfortably heavy at times. In terms of engine noise, the car is only really quiet at low revs. Wind and road noise can also be a problem at speed.

Appearances are one of the best attributes of Minis and the Countryman does not disappoint on this front. The overall style and design is in-keeping with the brand and this makes it an attractive vehicle.

However, the interior equipment is the same as that of the Countryman Cooper SD Auto and lacks some of the luxuries which many buyers will expect; adding them could see costs mount up rather quickly.

Standard equipment includes: power steering, central locking, stability control, air conditioning, electric door mirrors, electric front windows, rear parking sensors, alloy wheels, an advanced stereo with CD and MP3 connectivity as well as Bluetooth connectivity.

Air conditioning can be upgraded to climate control for an additional £345, whilst a leather interior, cruise control and a built-in sat nav can be added for £1,250, £210 and £1,345 respectively.

Despite some drawbacks the car is fairly practical. A higher driving position certainly improves visibility for the driver and there is plenty of steering column and seat adjustment to ensure the highest level of comfort is attained. The dashboard is also more attractive than other Mini models; although style has clearly been prioritised over functionality so it may take a while to learn how each of the controls work.

Cabin comfort varies in this model depending on the position of the seats and shoulder room in particular can be cramped. Passengers can either have ample leg room or decent storage capacity within the boot, but unfortunately it is not possible to have both. With the seats in place the boot space is just 350 litres – making it fairly small for a 4x4. Folding the seats down expands this to 1,170 litres which is more than sufficient.

In terms of safety, the car comes fitted with driver, passenger and front side airbags all as standard features. On top of this an alarm and immobiliser are fitted as standard to protect the car from theft whilst a three year warranty on unlimited miles should give buyers additional assurances.

Priced at £24,600 this car is far from cheap, but it still performs well within its class. Its price almost match those of the Volkswagen Golf range. The carbon emissions and fuel economy of the Mini outperform those of rivals.

The car achieves a decent 46.3 mpg on a combined cycle and carbon emissions are fairly average at 160 g/km – putting the car into tax band G.

The real benefit of this model is its combination of performance and efficiency alongside the added benefit of four wheel drive. For those who need this added stability for off-road driving, the Countryman Cooper SD ALL4 is the best option, whilst those who can survive without this feature would be better off investing their money in the cheaper Countryman Cooper SD.